Dinner Time in Indian Families in the US: A Look at Eating Habits and Routine

When it comes to dinner time in Indian families in the US, there is a diverse range of habits and routines that can be observed. Typically, most families have their dinner around 8 PM, especially when all members are back from work. However, not all households follow this pattern. Some have a 3-meal diet and delay their dinner beyond 7 PM, while others, due to various reasons, follow a 2-meal diet pattern with just supper and breakfast.

Meal Times and Routines

Based on my limited knowledge of around 9-10 households, the majority of Indian families in the US maintain a 3-meal routine similar to what they are accustomed to in India. For these families, dinner is often enjoyed after 7 PM. This allows family members to sync their schedules with their work hours and responsibilities at home. However, the quantity and type of food consumed vary slightly.

Key Observations

Couples are often working, making it difficult to prepare elaborate meals. Household chores and multitasking needs keep family members occupied. Regularly preparing elaborate Indian meals can be time-consuming. Tiffin services are increasingly popular among working Indians for timely meals. Some individuals start and end their workdays very early, aligning their dinner times with the local schedule. Healthcare costs and fitness concerns prompt some families to avoid overeating.

Two-Meal Diet

While many families adjust their routines to fit their busy schedules, some opt for a two-meal diet. In these households, dinner is brought forward to around 3-4 PM, and breakfast is enjoyed between 8-9 AM. This meal schedule helps maintain a good gap for digestion and is beneficial for overall daytime management. Some families, including my own, have found this routine to be highly productive and beneficial for daily routines.

Schedule Adaptation

For instance, some families complete their dinner around 7 PM, allowing their children to finish homework and engage in board games before lights out at 9:30 PM. This routine is reminiscent of the discipline instilled during my six years at a Military Prep Academy, where a structured daily schedule was beneficial for managing time efficiently.

From my experience, the overall management of the day is significantly enhanced by adhering to these routines. This structured approach not only ensures proper time allocation but also promotes a healthy and balanced daily routine.